COMPUTER BASICS - Networks


The Server System

To make it easier to access your files from any computer in the school (or from home) we store files and pages on specific SERVERS in the school NETWORK of computers.
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A NETWORK is a collection of individual computers that are connected together, typically by a wire called an ETHERNET cable. This allows files to be easily viewed or moved from one computer to another.

A SERVER is a computer whose harddrive is made available to other computers on the network. Instead of only being able to store files on your LOCAL computer's harddrive, you can also store and retrieve files from any SERVERS you have been given access to.

SERVERS are typically stand alone computers that aren't used for anything except serving files - they are also typically designated to serve files for specific uses or groups of users.

Networking Exercise: Speedtest

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Test Your Home Connection Speed
How fast is your home connection to the Internet? In this exercise, you'll find out!

From Home:
  1. Go to http://www.speedtest.net/ (right-mousclick and open this in a new window so you don't lose your place on THIS page)
  2. Conduct tests on Montreal
  3. Record your results in the form below -
    1. Try to be accurate with your information -
    2. Involve your parents and ask them if you can they can get details from an old bill
    3. Include the "name" of the plan (ie "Highspeed Lite", and the type of connection (ie. DSL) if you know it

Good luck - We'll post and compare the results when they're available!
Recording Form: